Forum Discussion

wantabe351's avatar
wantabe351
Explorer
Oct 09, 2017

Which to own- a New Mid level 5er or a older High line 5er

I'm reaching out to owners that have bought a new Mid-level 5er after having a nice older hi-line Fifth wheel...After looking at the different sites on the web for Newer Fifth Wheels to buy, which would be a better deal to get,and to be happy with..A new Mid-level unit or a 10 year plus High line 5th wheel...Such as "Horizon Majestic" or a "Mobile Suites" and there are others... I know i'm asking to compare 2 different types of RV's, But at a cost of 25,000 to 30,000$... one could own a 28'to 34' nice mid-level rv OR a 7 to 10yr old 38' to 40' Hi-line unit thats out of reach new, but can do used..Sure there may be some repairs but it could be upgrades too..I'm looking to help out a fellow RVer that lives down my street and wants to do just this....Thanks
  • wantabe351's avatar
    wantabe351
    Explorer
    Oct 10, 2017
    My thoughts were to invest on a used Hi-line Model with a plan on doing some upgrades/repairs. RV's can have good bones but there are still wearable items that will need to be replaced- Bedding, Furniture, tires and suspension but at a cost of 2-3,000$ and then a professional detail on the exterior you have a real nice unit to enjoy for many years..
  • Durb's avatar
    Durb
    Explorer
    Oct 10, 2017
    I did buy a higher end 5er used and have been very happy with it. Being able to do my own repairs has allowed me to not need a warranty. My only concern is that I feel high end 5ers were most likely purchased by full timers as a means to justify the cost. Personally, I wouldn't buy a used full time rig as wear and tear will be multiplied. If necessary, I would step down a notch in quality to get a lightly used unit.

    The older high end units are heavy. Some of the money saved might have to go to upgrading his truck. Something to consider.
  • memtb's avatar
    memtb
    Explorer
    Oct 10, 2017
    Used high end! Let the original owner take the big hit, plus you'll get a better made unit. Of course....you need to do your homework!!
  • Jayco-noslide's avatar
    Jayco-noslide
    Explorer
    Oct 09, 2017
    I wonder if there really is a big quality difference between an expensive, high end one and a mid price one. Or if a lot of it is fairly superficial options, etc. There may be a difference but I think it's hard to know since I've heard horror stories from plenty of owners of high end stuff. Perhaps condition and features are more important?
  • George_H's avatar
    George_H
    Explorer
    Oct 09, 2017
    Used high-end! The quality on majority of new models is in question. As for age limits, most parks will allow older units after they see them (assuming clean and cared for).
  • GHop's avatar
    GHop
    Explorer
    Oct 09, 2017
    The only problem I see, some parks have a age limit on RV's which they will allow in. I would think If you are going use the unit for a few years it might be a good idea, to save money. Whatever you go with, be happy, have fun and be safe.
  • colliehauler's avatar
    colliehauler
    Explorer III
    Oct 09, 2017
    I can only answer for me, after owning several Forest River and Keystone trailers that I bought new my next purchase will be a used high end RV.
  • SidecarFlip's avatar
    SidecarFlip
    Explorer III
    Oct 09, 2017
    IdaD wrote:
    RVs depreciate like crazy. I'm not sure I'd ever buy a new unit unless I was retired and looking to spend a ton of time in one. As a camper/vacation rig I just don't think I'd want to take that financial hit.


    Only thing that I know of that has a steeper depreciation curve is a snow mobile.

    I'd by buying used but with a very careful inspection. Adverse to sleeping in someone's bed, buy a new mattress.
  • IdaD's avatar
    IdaD
    Explorer
    Oct 09, 2017
    RVs depreciate like crazy. I'm not sure I'd ever buy a new unit unless I was retired and looking to spend a ton of time in one. As a camper/vacation rig I just don't think I'd want to take that financial hit.

About Fifth Wheel Group

19,006 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 23, 2025